Client – Southport Golf Club
Southport, 2021
Client Name: Southport Golf Club Location: Southport, QLD Project Completion: January 2021 Annual solar production: 153.1 MWh
Southport Golf Club, a well-established institution boasting an 18-hole championship course and premium facilities for dining, events, and functions, made a bold step towards sustainability by expanding its onsite energy generation. This initiative was designed not only to support their operational efficiency but to provide lasting value for their members, stakeholders, and the community. DS Energy was entrusted to design and install a solar solution that aligned with the club’s commitment to reduce expenses and environmental impact while enhancing their reputation for sustainable operations.
THE CHALLENGES
Before the installation, Southport Golf Club faced significant energy demands:
Annual Energy Consumption: 600 MWh Yearly Energy Bill: $60,000
The club sought a solution to effectively reduce these operational costs and decrease their reliance on traditional energy sources, aligning with their sustainability goals and cost-management strategy.
THE SOLUTION
To address Southport Golf Club’s energy needs and sustainability goals, DS Energy presented two options, both leveraging LG’s high-quality solar technology:
Option One consisted of a 99.75 kW system with LG NeON 2 panels (manufactured in South Korea) and a Filmer 100 kW inverter. The system featured a 25-year product warranty on the panels and a 10-year warranty on the inverter, providing longevity and reliability.
Though robust, this option required a higher upfront investment.
Option Two a 99.9 kW system with a slightly different configuration using LG MonoX Plus panels (manufactured in China) and a Solaredge 82.8 kW inverter. This setup also included P801 power optimisers and came with a 15-year warranty on the panels and a 12-year warranty on the inverter, ensuring excellent coverage.
This solution promised comparable performance, with projected annual energy production of 148,961 kWh, but at 20% lower capital cost than Option One.
After considering the Net Present Value (NPV) and internal rate of return across the warranted life of each asset, the committee selected Option Two. This choice allowed Southport Golf Club to achieve significant cost savings upfront while still securing a high-performing solar solution.
Additionally, government incentives played a substantial role in the decision, with the point-of-sale discount covering over 30% of the asset’s value, making the investment even more appealing.
System Capacity: 99.9 kW Technology: 270 LG365/370S1C-U6 solar panels Annual Solar Production: Expected to generate 153.1 MWh of clean energy
THE RESULT
The solar installation at Southport Golf Club is projected to deliver significant financial and environmental benefits. With an anticipated reduction of 118 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, the club is making a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.
Financially, the system is expected to generate annual savings of approximately $14,835. These savings not only contribute to a more efficient budget but also free up resources for further improvements in the club’s offerings and services. This long-term financial relief is a direct reflection of the club’s wise investment in renewable energy, providing stability in operational expenses amidst rising energy prices.
Beyond this, the project positions Southport Golf Club as a leader in sustainable practices within the leisure and hospitality sector. By prioritising clean energy, the club has not only enhanced its operational efficiency but also elevated its standing in the eyes of members, stakeholders, and the surrounding community. This solar project aligns with the club’s vision for long-term sustainability, financial prudence, and its dedication to leaving a positive environmental legacy.
Ready to join the movement towards a cleaner future? Contact DS Energy today to discover how our solar solutions can help your business.